Positive fatherhood improves the happiness and life chances of children. That is the key message of a new resource launched in Greater Manchester.
Unlimited Potential, a community benefit society, has been exploring the impact of positive fatherhood in different neighbourhoods for more than ten years.
It has now launched a new resource for both communities and organisations. The Dadly Does It website shares the key learning, and also offers free resources for local people and professionals to use.
“Most dads love their kids. We know that actively engaging dads in positive fatherhood improves the happiness and well-being of children.” said Chris Dabbs, Chief Executive of Unlimited Potential. “We have also learned that it improves the quality of family relationships and the well-being of partners and ex-partners.”
The project also saw dads working ‘shoulder to shoulder’ and supporting each other improves their well-being and that of their children. “Creating masculine environments in which dads can safely share their real feelings leads to major benefits for children, but also for the dads themselves.” added Mr. Dabbs.
The Dadly Does It resources at www.dadlydoesit.org.uk include an animation about children’s speech and language, a briefing for staff in children’s services, and templates for posters and publicity.
“We are continuing to work to spread positive fatherhood”, said Mr. Dabbs “When parents are supported as teams, the life chances of their children increase.”
Dadly Does It has been funded by the NHS in Salford, the Lankelly Chase Foundation and Greater Manchester Combined Authority.